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Silver

We often associate the element silver with jewelry. Indeed, the characteristic silvery radiance of this 47^th element is highly valued in accessories, but it also has important applications in other areas.

Photography is one area that uses silver extensively. Compounds of this element are found on the photographic films and papers that are exposed to light to capture images. In the past, silver was coated onto glass surfaces in the manufacture of mirrors.

Silver is both malleable and ductile. It possesses the highest electrical and thermal conductivity of all metals. Silver nitrate is an important inorganic compound – it has applications in paints, xerography and even as a catalyst in medicine.

Silver can be hazardous to human health due to its poisonous nature. If ingested orally, this transition metal is absorbed into the blood stream and deposited in the mucous membranes, where it forms a grayish film. On the other hand, silver nitrate has antiseptic effects as it can treat irritations of mucous membranes in the mouth and throat.